Night Vision Goggles Helping Solve Feral hog Problem in Texas

The growing population of wild hogs has become an increasing threat to the ecosystem in the United States.  It is estimated that there are more than 4 million wild hogs scattered throughout the U.S.  These animals breed quickly, and can have up to three litters of 9-10 young per year.  They have no natural predators, yet prey upon other life forms by devouring large amounts of crops, tearing up plants, and driving out native wildlife by taking away their food sources.

Of all 50 states, Texas is the one most infested with these animals.  Nearly 2 million feral hogs live in Texas, and they cause more than 2 billion dollars in damage each year. Therefore, legal, licensed hunting is used as a method of controlling the feral hog population.

However, wild hogs have the reputation of being notoriously difficult to catch.  They are large animals who seem to detect traps easily and are prone to using their horns for defense.  Additionally, they are largely nocturnal, making it challenging to locate them through the subtle tracks they leave in their wake, such as mud and hair attached to trees on which they have scratched themselves. Therefore, it is ideal to hunt wild hogs at night with a light source.  Due to laws that prohibit using light at night where deer are known to range, you must always seek advanced permission from the game warden to use a spotlight in this manner.

Another, more subtle, option you have is the use of night vision equipment.  This technology works by either detecting heat differences or amplifying the light that is already available.  Use of night vision equipment is very effective when used for purposes of hog control.  To learn more about the available options, please view our “How to Choose between Night Vision Devices” page at http://www.nightvision4less.com/education-center-night-vision-devices.aspx.